SCIENCE OUTREACH

Science Outreach Fellows Bring Engineering to Life with Bristlebots at Urban Promise

On October 6, the Science Outreach Fellows (SOFs) brought creativity, engineering, and hands-on learning to Urban Promise scholars in Trenton through an engaging Bristlebots activity. Led by fellow Jack Langan, with support from Catherine Arbaugh and Kenzie Gradney, the session introduced students to the exciting world of robotics and engineering design in a fun and accessible way.

Using simple materials such as toothbrush heads, small motors, and batteries, scholars built their own Bristlebots, tiny vibrating robots that move across surfaces using basic electrical circuits and mechanical motion. As they assembled their creations, students explored fundamental STEM concepts including energy transfer, engineering design, problem-solving, and experimentation.

The activity encouraged scholars to think like engineers by testing, modifying, and improving their Bristlebots to see how small changes affected movement and performance. The room buzzed with excitement as students compared designs, shared ideas, and celebrated their robotic creations' success.

The Bristlebots activity was a strong example of experiential learning, inspiring young scholars to ask questions, think creatively, and discover the possibilities of science and engineering. Science Outreach has an ongoing partnership with Urban Promise, creating monthly opportunities for students to explore STEM through interactive, inquiry-based experiences.

Science Outreach Fellows Participate in Teacher Training Session Led by UAF Catherine Hexter

On October 27^th, the Science Outreach Fellows (SOFs) participated in a teacher training session led by UAF Catherine Hexter, focused on effective STEM communication and lesson design.

During the session, SOFs explored strategies for presenting complex scientific concepts clearly, engagingly, and in ways that are developmentally appropriate for students. Through discussion and collaborative activities, participants examined how educators can break down challenging ideas, connect new concepts to students' prior knowledge, and foster curiosity through interactive learning experiences.

A key component of the training centered on designing questions and activities tailored to different grade levels. Fellows learned how instructional approaches should vary for elementary, middle, and high school students to align with students' cognitive development and educational needs. The session highlighted the importance of crafting age-appropriate questions that encourage critical thinking, inquiry, and active participation while maintaining student engagement.

Beyond exploring instructional techniques, fellows had the opportunity to practice adapting STEM activities for diverse audiences. By considering factors such as prior knowledge, attention span, and learning objectives, participants gained valuable insights into creating impactful outreach experiences that resonate with learners across grade levels.

The training provided an important foundation for the Science Outreach Fellows as they continue to lead STEM activities in schools and community programs. Through opportunities like this, fellows strengthen their ability to communicate science effectively, inspire curiosity, and create engaging learning environments that support students' exploration of STEM.

Science Outreach is grateful to Catherine Hexter for sharing her expertise and helping fellows develop the skills necessary to become thoughtful, effective STEM educators and outreach leaders.

Immediate Volunteer Opportunities

Science Outreach has a few upcoming outreach opportunities that could use more volunteers. These are existing opportunities with a lead, and you would assist as part of the team.

A few of those opportunities include:

• Thursday, November 5 – Boys and Girls Club STEM Conference (9:00 am – 1:00 pm). Time slots available at 9:00 am, 9:50 am, and 12:05 pm. *You can attend all or one time slot*

• Tuesday, November 10 – Urban Promise (4:45 pm – 5:45 pm). You would be assisting with an existing opportunity (secret science investigation).



• Tuesday, November 17 - Urban Promise (4:45 pm – 5:45 pm). You would be assisting with an existing opportunity (water filtration).

The Laboratory Learning Program

Faculty Projects Applications Open

October 31, 2026

Applications will open October 15 for Princeton University faculty to submit a research project plan to host LOCAL high school students in your lab this summer. The Laboratory Learning Program (LLP) is a free research outreach opportunity for local high school students. Local students are eligible to participate in Mercer County's One-Stop Career Center program to fund internships for the research they conduct in your lab over the summer.

Submit projects between October 31, 2026, and January 5, 2027.

EHS carefully reviews all projects. All projects are in person; there are no virtual or remote projects.

Graduate students, please share this information with your faculty advisors.



Please visit the Science Outreach website and go to the "Learning Program Hosts" tab for more information. You must log in with your PU NetID.

Please contact lab-learning@princeton.edu with any questions or for additional information.